The call detail records (CDR) leak, which allegedly reveals the exchange of calls between Ashok Kharat and some political leaders in the state, will also be investigated. File | Photo credit: Special arrangement
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) will investigate the assets of self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat, who is accused in multiple cases of rape and property fraud, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Sunday (April 5, 2026). He also said that there will be an investigation into the call detail records (CDR) leak, which allegedly reveals the exchange of calls between Kharat and some political leaders in the state.
“The leak of call records in the Ashok Kharat case will be investigated and strict action will be taken. No one has the right to access the call data records, only authorized agencies can do so. How the data leaked and who will be investigated by the state government,” Mr. Fadnavis said. He said that mere charges are not enough in sensitive cases and that action will be taken on the basis of evidence.
The Chief Minister spoke after social activist Anjali Damania alleged that there were 17 phone calls between Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and rape accused Kharat.
“12 cases registered so far”
“We have taken notice of all the accounts of Kharat and the transactions through them have been identified. I am confident that all illegal assets and wrongdoings will be exposed,” Mr Fadnavis said.
He said more and more individuals are coming forward with information about Kharat as “people’s confidence is rising”. He added that around 12 cases have been registered so far. People should trust the Special Investigation Team (SIT) which is probing the cases, Mr. Fadnavis said.
“The SIT is getting a lot of input and we will not stop until we dig out the entire root of this problem. In cases involving misconduct or atrocities on women, strict punishment will be given. There is consensus across Maharashtra and for us this issue is above politics,” he said.
Published – 05 Apr 2026 18:57 IST
